Saturday, May 25, 2013
Checking ECM Motors
Electronically
Commutated Motors (ECM) are pretty common these days. You can’t troubleshoot
them the same way you do a standard PSC motor. The ECM motor is really two
components – a motor and a control module. One big difference in checking these
motors is that is that they receive voltage all the time, not just when the
motor is operating. Really, it is the module that is powered all the time – the
module then controls when the motor receives power. The first thing you want to
establish is if the problem is in the controls to the motor/module, or the
motor/module itself. A device called a TECINSPECT helps you do this. Turn off
power to the unit. This step is important, not just for your safety, but for
the motor’s safety. Unplugging connectors from the motor while the unit is
powered up can cause the module to arc out. Unplug the control plug from the
module and connect the TECINSPECT. Connect the two tecmate alligator clips to
24 volts, such as the R and C terminals. Turn power back on to the unit. The LED
on the TECINSPECT should light to show it is receiving 24 volts. Flip the
TECINSPECT switch on and the motor should operate. If it does, the problem is
in the control board or wiring harness from the unit. If the motor does not
operate, the problem is in the motor or module. If the problem is in the motor
or module, the odds are that it is the module. Turn the power to the unit back
off and wait 5 minutes for the high voltage capacitors inside the module to
discharge. Remove the module and unplug it from the motor. Ohm out the motor.
The resistance between any two of the three motor leads should be approximately
5 ohms. If the readings check out, the problem is in the module. You must
replace the module with one designed for that specific unit because the mmodules
are programmed for the blowers they control.
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